The Red Dragon City, a neutral zone

"Yuuki can you explain what is martial intent"

"I Said don't talk to me"

"Yuuki... Yuuki.. Yuuki"

*Snap*

Yuuki crushed the pen in her hand, frustrated not only because Aetheris was under punishment for delaying their trip, but also because his actions had caused them to use more resources than they had budgeted for.

The carriage they are using is powered by an Ethossence, a rare and efficient energy source compared to Mana stones and attribute stones.

A single Ethossence is derived from the remnants of multiple worlds that have long since collapsed, and its formation is a natural phenomenon that cannot be artificially replicated.

This unique condition makes each unit of Ethossence exceptionally valuable and sought after by many regardless of its quality.

Their current journey could've taken decades by normal standards and restrictions, but the Ethossence powering their carriage reduced it to mere weeks. Aetheris, however, opted to delay their journey further, utilizing even more Ethossence to compress their time frame into just a few days.

This decision reached the Luminous Church and made Triny laugh in amusement upon receiving a report from Yuuki, who found joy in Aetheris' playful manipulation of their time frame, while Yuuki, preferring a more straightforward approach to their travel, felt frustrated.

"Urghh don't look at me with those small eyes...fine I'll explain this in a short manner

Anyone can wield a sword as a weapon but only those who have a pathway related to the sword can understand the sword meaning not everyone who holds a sword is a swordman similar to a Spearman, Archer

It takes an average Joe decades to awaken sword intent but a true swordsman months, weeks, or even days to awaken sword intent but the same can not be said for their mastery.. now martial intent

Martial intent is something meant for madmen, people who hone their bodies through battle and slaughter... being with the potential of harnessing insane combat prowess.."Said Yuuki

As Yuuki spoke, the carriage began to descend from the sky. Aetheris looked out the window and gasped. Below them lay a sprawling city, so vast that even his enhanced vision, capable of covering tens of kilometers, struggled to comprehend its enormity.

"This is the Red Dragon City a neutral zone and a testing site for the Imperius Academy "added Yuuki as she noticed the curiosity in his eyes

The Red Dragon City is a neutral zone that operates independently from the total control of kingdom rulers. Instead, it is governed by a city lord who is appointed through a vote conducted by the United Alliance, which consists of the various rulers.

This structure allows Red Dragon City to maintain a level of autonomy while still being subject to the influence and decisions of the alliance formed by the kingdom rulers.

The carriage landed on a vast platform that served as a landing zone for various modes of transportation, each varying in design and functionality. As the dust settled, Aetheris could see a multitude of airships, carriages, and even creatures capable of flight, bustling about the landing area.

As Aetheris, Yuuki, Vedic, and Sebastian descended from the carriage, a squad of five wearing a fancy military-like uniform approached their carriage

"Can you please give us your forms of identification? We may sound rude, but we didn't receive any prior notice of your arrival, and we must follow protocol," said the squad leader, her tone firm but respectful.

Yuuki sighed, visibly restraining her frustration, before pulling out a small, shimmering crystal from her pouch. "Here. This should clear up any issues," she replied, handing the crystal over. The squad leader inspected it carefully, then nodded in recognition.

"My apologies for the inconvenience, Lady Yuuki. We weren't expecting such distinguished guests," the squad leader said, bowing slightly. "Welcome to Red Dragon City."

"Distinguished?" Aetheris mused, amused by the formality, but Yuuki quickly cut him off with a glare.

"Don't push your luck," she muttered under her breath. "Now behave. We don't need more delays."

The squad leader looked at Aetheris, but she soon tapped her bracelet, and a holographic screen manifested as she began to input some information. Aetheris leaned closer, intrigued by the glowing screen displaying various symbols and data.

"This is our information processing system," the squad leader explained, her fingers moving deftly across the interface. "We record visitor data for security and organizational purposes. Your details will be logged into our system."

Yuuki, trying to ease the tension, added, "It's your job to do so, it's only fair that I comply ."

"Exactly," the squad leader replied, glancing at her team, who stood at attention. "The Red Dragon City is a neutral zone, and we prioritize the safety of our citizens and guests alike."

After a moment, the squad leader nodded, satisfied with the details on her screen. "You're all set. Enjoy your stay, Lady Yuuki, and guests."

As the squad leader concluded her formalities, a flicker of energy enveloped Aetheris, Yuuki, Vedic, and Sebastian. In an instant, they felt a strange pull, as if reality itself was bending around them. With a soft pop, the bustling noise of Red Dragon City faded, replaced by an eerie stillness.

They found themselves standing in a secluded estate, nestled within the city yet hidden from the prying eyes of its inhabitants. Surrounded by a tall wall adorned with intricate symbols of protection, the estate exuded an aura of privacy and safety. The entrance, a grand archway flanked by blossoming cherry trees, was intricately carved with images of celestial beings and ancient runes, hinting at the magic that lay within.

The estate itself was a harmonious blend of nature and elegant architecture. Lush gardens overflowed with vibrant flowers and carefully manicured hedges, creating an oasis amid the bustling urban landscape. Stone pathways meandered through the gardens, leading to various nooks filled with tranquil seating areas, where one could enjoy the beauty of the surroundings.

At the center stood a magnificent manor, its facade a blend of rich mahogany and white marble, adorned with intricate carvings that depicted the legends of warriors and mythical beasts. Large windows, framed with ornate gold filigree, reflected the sunlight, casting a soft, warm light throughout the estate.

Aetheris looked at the manor with awe, out of curiosity he looked at the sky and felt... alive

...

Thank you for reading 🙏 😊